A dream job for IPR, The Institute of Production and Recording graduate Christopher Lee places him on tour with American Idol alumni and country superstar Kellie Pickler. He credits his new gig at the monitor board to a passion for live audio production and seven years preparation concluding with an IPR education.

Christopher Lee’s audio production journey began at age fifteen. He took learning opportunities in church and school and discovered a natural aptitude for audio engineering. As a teenager Lee met country artist Gary Allen’s front of house engineer and built a friendship that followed him to his current position. Post IPR, Lee was invited to work for Sound Image, Nashville, and Lee’s hard work eventually placed him on tour with Kellie Pickler.

Lee credits IPR Instructor Jay Fleming and time with the Venue Profile System, an Avid, Pro Tools mixing system for live application. Classes with Fleming often included trips to Minneapolis sound event company Allied Audio for additional exposure to the latest in Avid live sound technology.

IPR recently visited Chris at Treasure Island Casino near Redwing, MN on the evening of his third tour date with Kellie Pickler. So far Chris is having a blast and learning a lot from some very talented people. His attitude is one of hard work and humility; he doesn’t allow himself to take too much credit for his success so far. IPR met Chris’ Grandfather during the visit who told us, “I’m really proud of that kid’s work ethic.” We are too: congratulations Chris!

Christopher Lee is a graduate of IPR’s Audio Production and Engineering AAS in Media Arts program, designed to prepare graduates for roles in live sound, audio production, radio, TV, film, gaming and other sound media. Students get extensive hands-on training on industry-standard tools, develop their musical ears and work in realistic business situations.

Check the IPR blog again soon as we’ll be featuring Chris in a graduate success story.